[NonValueAdded]

WHY are the snipers shooting at rescue copters? What exactly are they hoping to accomplish??

I've heard two explanations that are plausible with the third being that they are just plain evil people. First, it is the frustration of being on 4 sq ft of roof above a toxic sea and seeing a vehicle - any vehicle - pass you by. It might not make sense to you or I sitting behind our keyboards, but imagine the desperation of being in that situation. The "you're leaving me here to die? Take that!" effect.

The second answer is the shots are taken in order to attract attention, like waving a flag if you had one but all you have in your hand is a gun. Again, it doesn't make much sense but after 5 days with death at your right hand, rational thought is replaced by survival instinct.

[steveegg]

Marine One is back in the air.

[hummingbird]

It might not make sense to you or I sitting behind our keyboards, but imagine the desperation of being in that situation.

Very good and plausible points, NVA. Last night, I tried to imagine being separated from Mr. h, not knowing where my parents were, having to leave cherished pets behind, danger to the small children in our extended families, etc. and had to stop because it was too overwhelming. If it was that painful just imagining, I cannot comprehend the horror people are experiencing and what they or I might do to gain some relief.

Thank you for the added perspective.